The Bayelsa State Government has defended its decision to temporarily halt elections for the leadership of the Ogbia Brotherhood, a prominent socio-cultural organization of the Ogbia people, citing the need to prevent potential unrest and promote stability in the region.
In a meeting with representatives of the Concerned Daughters of Ogbia at Government House, Yenagoa, on Tuesday, Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo clarified the government’s stance.
According to a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Doubara Atasi, the ban was prompted by concerning security reports about the Ogbia Brotherhood elections, with the government acting in the best interest of the community.
“The decision to suspend the election was driven by serious security concerns,” Senator Ewhrudjakpo explained.
“The Governor receives regular intelligence updates on activities across the state, including issues in Ogbia that may not be public knowledge. We acted to prevent small issues from escalating into a major crisis.”
He urged the Ogbia people to remain united and avoid actions that could tarnish the global reputation of their notable son, former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan.
The Deputy Governor reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Douye Diri’s administration to honor Dr. Jonathan while fostering peace and progress in Ogbia and beyond.
Senator Ewhrudjakpo highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects in Ogbia, such as the Onuebum-Otuoke Road and the Ayama-Ogbia/Okodi Road, and assured the group that the election ban would be lifted soon, with plans to facilitate a smooth electoral process for new Ogbia Brotherhood leadership.
Speaking on behalf of the Concerned Daughters of Ogbia, Women Leader Mrs. Blessing Igbuasi and Public Relations Officer Mrs. Ada Joan noted that their peaceful protest was intended to draw attention to growing disunity in Ogbia due to the absence of elected Brotherhood leadership.
Miss Odo Esther, Women Leader of the Grassroots Mobilization Initiative (GMI), also condemned the alleged excessive response by some police officers during the protest.
The women appealed to the government to expedite the lifting of the ban and organize elections for the Ogbia Brotherhood leadership.
The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Irorodamie Komonibo; Deputy Chief of Staff, Comrade Gowon Toruyouyei; Commissioner for Science and Technology, Hon. Gibson Munalayefa; and Ogbia Local Government Chairman, Hon. Golden Jeremiah, among others.
